New Delhi: South African star Quinton de Kock delivered a statement performance in the second T20I in Mullanpur, smashing a brilliant 90 off 46 balls to remind the cricketing world of his match-winning ability. After going scoreless in the opening T20I in Cuttack, the left-hander responded in style, shifting momentum firmly in South Africa’s favour and reaffirming why he remains one of the most dangerous top-order batters in world cricket.
De Kock had already struck a century in the ODI series, and this innings further highlighted a player in peak rhythm. While Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram struggled to settle, De Kock batted with complete freedom — his timing crisp, his intent clear, and boundaries flowing with ease. His knock featured five fours and seven sixes, struck with a trademark blend of elegance and raw power, pushing his strike rate close to 200.
No other South African batter crossed a strike rate of 150, underlining just how heavily he carried the innings before being dismissed by sharp glovework from Jitesh Sharma. His performance not only set up South Africa’s imposing total of 213/4, but also reignited discussions around his value ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Auction Interest Surges
Initially missing from the IPL’s announced player list for the December 16 mini-auction, De Kock was later added following franchise requests. After a quieter season with Kolkata Knight Riders, his inclusion was not guaranteed — but innings like this significantly elevate his stock.
A seasoned wicketkeeper-batter with over a decade of international experience, De Kock offers versatility as an opener and stability behind the stumps. With 3,309 IPL runs in 115 matches at a strike rate of 134.02, he remains one of the league’s most proven overseas performers. Priced at a base of ₹1 crore, he could spark an early bidding battle.
Three Franchises Likely to Target De Kock
3. Delhi Capitals
With ₹21.80 crore in their purse, Delhi Capitals may explore bringing in De Kock after releasing Faf du Plessis. They already have two wicketkeepers — Abishek Porel and KL Rahul — which may limit his starting opportunities, but his experience makes him a strong backup and mentor option for a young squad.
2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru
RCB need a reliable opener after parting ways with Phil Salt and Mayank Agarwal. De Kock’s aggressive starts could be the perfect complement to the team’s middle order. His form against India and his proven IPL pedigree make him a realistic target for the franchise.
1. Rajasthan Royals
Following the high-profile trades of Sanju Samson and Nitish Rana, Rajasthan’s top order lacks experience. While Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal offer youthful energy, the team needs a steady overseas presence. De Kock could open or even be slotted at No. 3, giving the Royals much-needed stability.
Proteas Post 213/4 Against India
Powered by De Kock’s explosive innings, South Africa reached 213/4, with Donovan Ferreira (30*) and David Miller (20*) adding quick runs at the end. India now face a steep chase as they aim to tighten their grip on the series, while the visitors look to level it.
With the mini-auction approaching and De Kock back in prime form, his name is once again among the most talked-about on the auction list — and the stage seems set for a bidding war.
